SHILLONG, Feb 20: UDP leader, Bindo Mathew Lanong pitched for an independent inquiry into the allegations of illegal mining and transportation of coal, saying that the government should clear the air once and for all.
“It is a matter of concern that illegal mining and transportation of coal still continues. I am also concerned over the death of the two coal miners in Shallang, West Khasi Hills. We cannot allow these illegalities to continue,” Lanong said.
He also said it was alarming that police were reportedly escorting the coal-laden trucks.
Lanong, however, made it clear that the allegation of illegal mining and transportation of coal was not a new issue and it started during the tenure of former chief minister, Mukul Sangma.
“He (Mukul Sangma) was in power for four years after the National Green Tribunal imposed the ban on coal mining in the state in 2014. Even during his time there were allegations of rampant transportation and illegal mining of coal across the state,” Lanong added.
He also suggested that the state government should think of conducting a case study on how coal is being mined in Sohra area.
According to the UDP leader, the government can adopt the method being employed in the coal mines in Sohra area which causes minimal damage to the environment.
“People in Sohra area know how coal is mined without harming the environment as they have been doing it since the days of the British rule. What is encouraging is that while mining is being done, enough coal is still being preserved for the future generations,” Lanong pointed out.